Medford Explore Local With RVshare

Originally settled as gold drew hopeful prospectors to this part of Oregon, Medford today is a sweet spot between bustling metropolis and rural village, offering small-town sensibility along with plenty of things to see, do, and explore. Here are our favorites!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

Southwestern Oregonians are lucky for a wide variety of reasons, not the least of which is the plethora of incredible natural beauty that surrounds them. Here are just a few of the state and national parks worth checking out in the Medford, OR area.

Casey State Recreation Site

Although it’s day-use only, the Casey State Recreation Site is a popular spot amongst Medford denizens, not least because it’s located less than 30 miles north of town. Providing access to the Rogue River, this park is a great spot for both fishers and boaters, as well as those who simply want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a picnic along the water.

Crater Lake National Park

How many people are lucky enough to say they have a national park literally in their backyard? For those in Medford, the incredible Crater Lake National Park is just an hour away — and its stunning cerulean waters are certainly worth the drive. The deepest such body of water in the United States, Crater Lake was formed when a volcano called Mount Mazama collapsed thousands of years ago. Along with the lake itself, the landscape also offers hiking trails through forested paths, caves, mountain peaks, and so much more to explore.

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

While Carlsbad Caverns and Mammoth Cave might get all the glory, don’t get it twisted: southwestern Oregon is home to some incredible underground spaces. The Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve protects a stunning network of caverns under the Siskiyou Mountains, accidentally discovered by a local over a century ago. The park is also home to a network of aboveground trails offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

TouVelle State Recreation Site

Another day-use park located on the banks of the Rogue River, TouVelle State Recreation Site is just nine miles north of Medford, making it a quick jaunt from town. Consisting of more than 50 acres of developed wilderness, this park is a great pick for hikers, picnickers and bird watchers as well as those hoping to fish and swim.

Tub Springs State Wayside

Once a stop on the Oregon Trail back in 1846, the land that is now the Tub Springs State Wayside certainly has history. Its name is derived from the tubs that were installed back in the 1930s to provide spring water for weary travelers passing through — tubs which have been renovated and are still functional today! More of a quick stop than a place to wander, Tub Springs State Wayside offers picnicking facilities and vault toilets.

Valley of the Rogue State Park

Winding more than 200 miles from the Cascade Range out to the coast, the Rogue River is an Oregon treasure — and the landscape that surrounds it is truly wild. Valley of the Rogue State Park preserves some of the most characteristic geological formations and plants that line the river, as well as providing space for many of the animals who’ve called this area home for far longer than humans. 

Those in Medford know they don’t have to go very far to enjoy some incredible outdoor relaxation time. Here are a few of the best hiking trails in and closeby to Medford.

Rogue River Natural Bridge

One of the best-known hiking adventures in the area — and easy enough for even beginners to tackle — the Rogue River Natural Bridge trail runs just under two miles all told and sees only 150 feet in elevation gain, meandering through some of the local forest canopy and traversing the Rogue River via some beautiful natural bridges. Portions of this trail are wheelchair accessible and it’s a great option for a first hike for the kids, too! 

Twilight Trail

Tucked into Prescott Roxy Ann Park, the Twilight Trail is another relatively easy option for those looking for a leisurely stroll — though at four miles and something like 400 feet in elevation gain over the course of the entire journey, you’ll experience some undulating hills (and the breathtaking views that come with them). Visitors report that this mostly-flat trail offers beautiful wildflowers as well, and is kid friendly.

Upper Table Rock Trail

Upper and lower table rock represent one of the most unique parts of the southwestern Oregon landscape, and those in Medford are lucky enough to have them just half an hour away. The Upper Table Rock Trail runs about three and a half miles all told, and sees just over 750 feet in elevation gain along the way, putting it firmly into the moderately challenging category. Enjoy beautiful valley views as well as getting up close and personal with this unique rock formation.

Lower Table Rock Trail

Lower Table Rock Trail is another option, this one winding almost five miles and seeing almost 800 feet in elevation change along the way. From your viewpoint at the top, you’ll be able to see miles and miles of rolling green hillside and farmland, along with more characteristic southwestern Oregon peaks in the distance — the craggy, tree-covered kind, not the massive snow-capped ones you’ll find in the cascades! 

Roxy Ann Peak Trail

At about five miles and over 1,000 feet in elevation gain, the Roxy Ann Peak Trail is certainly a challenge — and a great opportunity for anyone in Medford looking for a little bit of fresh air and exercise at the same time. The view at the top, according to some reviewers, is enough to give you goosebumps… just be sure you bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection to get you through! 

Food is easily one of the best parts of getting familiar with any town or city, no matter how foreign or familiar it may be to you. Here are some of the very best restaurants in Medford, no matter what you’re craving!

Rosario’s Italian Restaurant

Not sure what to do for date night? One of our top picks for those looking for things for couples to do in Medford is simply to enjoy a delicious meal in the rustic-yet-charming ambiance at Rosario’s Italian Restaurant. Beloved amongst Medford diners for over a decade, this spot is known for all your Tuscan favorites as well as the friendly, familial atmosphere with which it’s all served. 

Melange Eatery

If you’re skeptical about the plant-based way of being, you might consider heading to Melange Eatery — an Asian fusion restaurant serving up a colorful and inventive menu of vegetarian and vegan options. The menu includes items like hand-seared “scallops” as well as veggie sushi, tofu and rice bowls, and a range of raw dishes including spaghetti, tacos, salads and more. There’s also “cheezcake” and brownies for dessert, so save room!

Noho’s Hawaiian Cafe

Looking for something really different? Noho’s Hawaiian Cafe is a beloved Portland institution that also offers a Medford location, and is a great opportunity to try out something you maybe haven’t ever had before. From Hawaiian-style poke to kalua pork spring rolls and more, this spot will have you dancing the hula before you know it.

El Molcajete Mexican Grill

If you’re seeking out something spicy and satisfying, El Molcajete Mexican Grill may just be your very best option in town. A family restaurant offering all your traditional Mexican favorites as well as a few with a twist, this spot is delicious from the chips and guac at the start to the fajitas, burritos, and tostadas you can choose from for the main course. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options! 

Sakura Japanese Restaurant

Tucked into a nondescript plaza, it would be easy to overlook Sakura Japanese Restaurant — but some have called its offerings the best sushi available in southern Oregon. Authentic, fresh, and reasonably priced, this spot serves up both traditional and special rolls as well as sashimi, nigiri and more. They’ve also got a great happy hour!

Enjoying great dining and the great outdoors is just the start when it comes to fun things to see, do, and explore in Medford. Here are some more of our favorite picks!

For Kids and Families

Enjoying a day with the kids? Good deal — there are tons of incredible things for families to do together in Medford and the surrounding areas this weekend. Check ‘em out!

Crater Rock Museum

Located in nearby Central Point, the Crater Rock Museum showcases a stunning array of rocks, minerals and gems, as well as petrified woods, fossils, artifacts from Native American life, and more. Step into the fluorescent mineral display to see items glow in the dark or imagine the ancient swimming fish, present 50 million years ago during the Green River formation, whose skeletons are now pressed into rocks as fossils

Seven Oaks Farm

Offering sustainably grown, non-GMO produce for sale so you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal at home, Seven Oaks Farm also hosts a pumpkin patch, wanderable gardens, the opportunity to get friendly with goats, and — most importantly of all — a chance for your kids to understand what exactly goes into the food on their table. A must-do!

Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure

If you and your fam are an adventurous bunch, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to soar above it all at Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure. Along with flying high through the trees, this company also offers full-day tours of the area complete with hiking, zipping, rafting, lunch, and even wine for mom and dad!

At Night

Chances are you won’t run out of things to keep you busy in Medford during the daylight hours… but what about once night falls? Glad you asked. Here are some of our favorite go-to after-dark activities.

Roxy Ann Lanes

It’s never a bad time to go bowling — I mean, how often do you get to play a sport that allows you to sip a beer and enjoy some nachos at the same time? Roxy Ann Lanes is a beloved local institution in Medford; the kind of place where everybody knows your name (and your game, so watch your back!). Be sure to arrive hungry and thirsty, because the on-site bar and grill serves up delicious pub grub as well as some of the best milkshakes and malts in the area.

Ashland Street Cinemas

Just half an hour away from Medford in the quaint college town of Ashland, Ashland Street Cinemas presents the perfect spot for movie night. Along with offering both big box office hits and the occasional noteworthy indie film, this spot is beloved for its cozy seating and deliciously salty popcorn.

Cheap Things to Do in Medford

Think you’ve gotta spend an arm and a leg to get familiar with Medford? Think again! Here are some of our favorite options to check out on the cheap.

Rogue Creamery

If you’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for any amount of time, chances are you’ve seen Rogue Creamery cheeses for sale at the grocery store. But if you’re in Medford, you can visit the very source of those delicious, creamy cheddars and blues — whether you head to the dairy stand to say hi to the cows responsible for your pleasure or hit the cheese shop for some snacks and to-go purchases.

Oregon Vortex

Since 1930, the Oregon Vortex has drawn visitors into its unique and baffling whirlpool — a spherical field of force, where strange phenomena naturally occur that will have you disbelieving your very eyes. We won’t give away too much about this must-see roadside attraction, but we will say that admission starts at under $15 a head — and for kids five and under, it’s free!

Free Things to Do in Medford

Here are our favorite picks for those who want to get out on the town without even bringing their wallet. (Just kidding, you should probably make sure you have your ID!)

Schneider Museum of Art

Drive just up the road apiece to Ashland to visit the Schneider Museum of Art, showcasing both historical and contemporary art perspectives and works from around the country and the world. Best of all, admission to this art museum is totally free and open to the public, making it a great option for taking in some culture without going broke.

Local Parks

When in doubt, head out(side)! Medford is blessed with a large collection of local parks, all of which are free and open to the public. Oregon Hills park is known for its sustainable design with solar power and native plants for storm control, and Fichtner Mainwaring Park offers playgrounds and sports courts. There’s also Bear Creek Park, Hawthorne Park, and of course, the outdoor museum that is Medford Railroad Park — where you can ride for free on a built-to-scale steam train on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.!

Spas in Medford

In need of some R&R? Aren’t we all. Here are the best day spas and salons for getting pampered in Medford.

White Lotus Day Spa

When it comes to a great spa experience, the only thing more important than the atmosphere is the service itself — and the professionals at White Lotus Day Spa know how to make you feel rested and relaxed. Choose from massage in a wide range of modalities as well as skin care, hand and foot detailing, and comprehensive packages. They also offer eyelash extensions, makeup services, and waxing.

Trust Salon and Day Spa

Haircuts and color are just the start at Trust Salon and Day Spa, where you can also enjoy manicure and pedicure services, a wide range of facials, face and body waxing, lash services and body treatments.

Best Gyms & Yoga Studios

If you want to take to those beautiful hillsides, you’ve got to stay in shape! Here are the best gyms and yoga studios in Medford.

Urban Fit

From serious endeavors, like powerlifting and strongman, to plain old working out (be it on your own, with a trainer, or in a group class setting), Urban Fit is the Medford go-to for all things fitness. It’s truly a gym built for everybody (and every body)!

Rasa Center for Yoga and Wellness

With locations in both Medford and Ashland, Rasa Center for Yoga and Wellness has earned its reputation for professionalism and inclusivity — and offers a variety of classes for yogis of all skill and interest levels. From gentle flows to more challenging practices, find your best self on your mat here!

While you certainly don’t need to go far to have fun in Medford, there are some great road trips for those looking to get away!

Silver Falls State Park

The Pacific Northwest is well-known for its waterfalls for good reason, and Silver Falls State Park is well worth the four hour drive it takes to get there. Make it into a long weekend by camping or staying in nearby Salem — or drive up to Portland to really create a whole vacation out of it!

Redwoods National and State Parks

Head south of the border into California to enjoy some of the most stunning trees you’ve ever seen. Although redwoods are visible in a wide variety of northern California greenspaces, Redwoods National Park and the string of state parks nearby are ideal places to set eyes on some of these knockout trees, which will make you feel like you’ve walked into a fairytale.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Medford that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Medford? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.